Getting ready for a multi-week motorcycle trip can be both thrilling and challenging. It’s an adventure that requires careful planning and a lot of consideration, especially when it comes to packing everything you need for the journey. One of the key aspects to consider is your bike’s luggage capacity. If you own a Yamaha Ténéré 700, you might be wondering how to increase its luggage capacity without compromising safety and ride quality. In this article, we will delve into various ways to safely boost your bike’s luggage capacity and ensure a smooth and enjoyable ride.
Choosing the Right Luggage
Before you start strapping bags onto your bike, it’s important to consider what kind of luggage you’ll be using. Ideally, the luggage you choose should be durable, waterproof, and versatile. The most common types of motorcycle luggage include top boxes, panniers, rear bags, and tank bags.
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Top boxes are secured on the rear rack of the bike and provide a good amount of storage space. They’re an excellent choice for long trips as they can hold a decent amount of essentials without affecting the balance of the motorcycle. Panniers, on the other hand, are mounted on the sides of the bike. These can also hold plenty of gear but they can affect the bike’s width which can be a downside on narrower roads or in traffic.
Rear bags are a great option for extra storage. They can be strapped to the rear seat or luggage rack. Tank bags are attached to the fuel tank and provide easy access to frequently used items such as maps, cell phone, or a camera.
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Installing a Luggage Rack
A luggage rack is a must-have accessory if you’re planning on adding extra luggage to your Yamaha Ténéré 700. It provides a sturdy and reliable platform for attaching top boxes or rear bags. Depending on the design, a luggage rack can also have locations for mounting side cases or panniers.
When installing a luggage rack, ensure that it’s designed specifically for your Yamaha model to ensure a perfect fit. Also, ensure that the rack is made from durable materials like stainless steel or aluminium to withstand the rigors of long-distance travel.
Using a Pannier System
Panniers offer a significant increase in luggage capacity. A set of panniers typically includes two side cases mounted on either side of the rear wheel. They are particularly useful for long-distance trips because they provide ample storage space and help maintain the bike’s center of gravity, ensuring a stable ride.
While a wide range of panniers is available on the market, it’s advisable to invest in a pannier system specifically designed for the Yamaha Ténéré 700. This will ensure the panniers fit securely and don’t affect the bike’s handling. Also, consider the pannier’s material. Hard panniers made from metal or plastic offer better security and protection for your belongings, while soft panniers are usually lighter and can be more easily adjusted to fit different load sizes.
Upgrading the Engine for Better Performance
While this might sound unrelated, upgrading your motorcycle’s engine can actually help you carry more luggage. The Yamaha Ténéré 700 comes with a powerful 689 cc engine. However, if you’re planning on carrying a lot of gear, it might be worth considering an engine upgrade.
An engine upgrade will not increase the physical luggage capacity, but it will enhance your bike’s ability to carry heavy loads without sacrificing performance. With a stronger engine, your Yamaha will be able to maintain optimal speeds even with the additional weight of the luggage. Remember, a heavily loaded bike requires more power to maintain speed, especially when riding uphill or against strong winds.
Packing Strategically
Last but not least, how you pack your luggage can play a significant role in safely increasing your bike’s luggage capacity. Distribute the weight evenly across the bike to prevent instability. Place the heaviest items at the bottom and towards the center of the bike. This will help you maintain balance and control during the ride.
Packing your luggage in a compact and organized manner can also free up some space. Use packing cubes or compression sacks to keep your belongings compact. This will allow you to fit more into your luggage without risking overpacking.
In summary, safely increasing the luggage capacity of your Yamaha Ténéré 700 involves a combination of choosing the right luggage, installing a luggage rack, using a pannier system, considering an engine upgrade, and packing strategically. With these tips, you can embark on your long-awaited motorcycle journey with all the essentials you need, without compromising the safety and enjoyment of your ride.
Equipping Protective Gear and Accessories
Adding the right protective gear and accessories not only can elevate your bike’s aesthetics but also provide added functionality and storage options. For Yamaha Ténéré 700, there are numerous options available to consider.
An engine guard, also known as a crash bar, is a protective accessory that provides additional safety to the engine and other vital components of your motorcycle. They can also serve as extra mounting points for smaller bags or tool kits.
Next, consider a skid plate. While primarily designed to protect the underside of your bike from rocks and other road debris, some skid plate designs come with attachment points for additional storage.
Another accessory worth considering is a side stand. Besides its primary function of keeping your bike upright when parked, some side stands come with small compartments for storing items like a first aid kit or repair tools.
Riding gear with additional pockets can also provide extra storage. Jackets and pants specifically designed for motorcycle touring often come equipped with numerous pockets, which can be a handy place to store smaller items.
Lastly, don’t forget about soft luggage options. Soft panniers and tank bags can offer convenient and flexible storage. Soft panniers easily attach to the sides of your bike, providing ample storage without adding too much weight. A tank bag, on the other hand, is a versatile option that offers easy access to essentials while riding.
Making Use of Online Communities and Resources
Online communities like Horizons Unlimited, Reddit, and Facebook groups can be a treasure trove of information for Yamaha Ténéré owners. These platforms are filled with experienced riders who can provide tips, advice, and even product recommendations to help you increase your bike’s luggage capacity.
Apart from community forums, various online resources and blogs offer extensive reviews and guides on motorcycle luggage options. Websites like Post Digg, Del Icio, and Share Post have numerous articles and blog posts dedicated to motorcycle touring and luggage options.
Remember to share Google searches about the topic as well. From product reviews to tutorials on how to install luggage systems, the internet is a vast resource that can help you prepare for your multi-week trip.
Conclusion
Increasing the luggage capacity of your Yamaha Ténéré 700 for a multi-week trip requires careful planning and consideration. From choosing the right luggage, installing add-ons like a luggage rack or panniers, considering an engine upgrade, and packing strategically, each decision contributes to the overall comfort, safety, and enjoyment of your journey.
By equipping protective gear and accessories like crash bars and skid plates, you not only enhance your bike’s protection but also its functionality. Utilizing online communities and resources can also provide invaluable insights and recommendations.
While the process might seem overwhelming, remember that the goal is to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. You want to focus on the ride, the scenery, and the adventure, not worry about your luggage. So, invest some time and effort in preparing your Yamaha Ténéré 700, and ensure a safe and memorable journey.
